Job losses as Derby food manufacturer restructures business

A ready meals manufacturer which began life in its owner's kitchen is to restructure with the expected loss of 80 jobs.

Perween Warsi CBE founded S&A Foods as a young mother in the 1980s, naming it after her sons Sadiq and Abid.

The Derby-based company, which specialises in chilled Indian food, currently has a workforce of 560.

The restructure will be phased over four months and the company hopes some staff will take voluntary redundancy.

Managing Director Des Kingsley said the decision to reduce the workforce followed "lengthy consideration".

'Challenging environment'

"We have to reduce operating costs significantly in order to remain competitive in an increasingly challenging economic environment," he said.

"The move will safeguard the 480 jobs that will remain after the restructure. It is with deep regret that we have made this very difficult decision and our thoughts go out to those who will be leaving the company.

"Of course we recognise the impact this announcement will have on their lives and we will be offering them as much practical support as possible to help find alternative employment."

The restructure is expected to affect most departments and levels of the business and will follow a 30-day consultation period.